A tropical cyclone alert has been issued for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and the nearby islands, and also the whole of the Lau group.

The Nadi Weather office said a tropical depression has formed within a trough of low pressure located just North of Vanua Levu. The system is currently slow moving but expected to move in a South East direction over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Weather Office Director, Rajendra Prasad said as this happens, the Tropical Depression is expected to deepen and most likely develop into a Tropical Cyclone.

The National DISMAC Centre is on stand-by tonight after the Nadi Weather Office issued the cyclone alert for Vanua Levu and the Lau group.

Dismac Director, Patiliai Dobui said all the Commissioners from the four Divisions have been advised to be prepared.